The name Smartly Artfully came to me when I began to conceptualize this blog. Many of the smartest people are also highly creative, both smart in their work and their style. I hope to focus here on this winning combo whether in art, design, home, or lifestyle. Think Humphrey Bogart & Lauren Bacall, Alfred Stieglitz & Georgia O'Keeffe, or Gwen & Blake.

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Aug 7 Camping in Style

Having spent every summer with my family up in the Sierra Nevadas of California camping the old-fashioned way--building our campsite from the ground up from a carload of supplies (tent, sleeping bags, stove, etc.)--I thought enjoying the great outdoors in rustic fashion was part of the "true grit" way of making memories. Fun, yes. Stylish, no.

For some of you who are hesitant about roughing it, nowadays there are plenty of options for those seeking a little more luxury and style in your camping experience while you enjoy those gorgeous views.

Retro Luxe Camping with Autocamp

At the recent Dwell on Design show in L.A., there was an entire display dedicated to this way of connecting with the outdoors (image above). Autocamp is a California company that takes Airstream trailers from retro to mid-century modern chic, while permanently parking them in their own campgrounds so there's no worry about towing a trailer to a campsite yourself. Luxury tents are also an option for those who want that traditional experience, with handsome interiors and amenities (including a queen bed!).

(Image: Autocamp)

The company runs two camp locations: Northern California, near the Russian River, wine country, and famous redwoods; or you may prefer the mix of old-world Spanish architecture and coastal amusements to be found near their Santa Barbara site along the Central Coast.

(Image: Autocamp)

(Image: Autocamp)

There's plenty of beauty to be found in the Airstream accommodations as well: chic mid-century modern interiors, boutique hotel quality bedding and towels, and get this--SPA-INSPIRED BATHS. Does this really qualify as camping? Probably not. But does it mean that I'd be more likely to connect with the great outdoors? You bet.

(Image: Autocamp)

How do you connect with nature? Are you a day hiker, camper, or backyard daydreamer? Share your experiences and tips in the comments section below.

(This was not a sponsored post)

(Autocamp rep was cool enough to let me test out their trailer's bed!)